President-elect Donald Trump has detailed plans to launch what he calls “the largest deportation operation in American history” immediately after taking office Monday, January 20, starting with targeted raids in Chicago and other major cities that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
The incoming administration intends to begin immigration enforcement operations on the day after the inauguration, with Chicago selected as the initial focus. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) plans to deploy approximately 150 agents to Chicago for these initial raids, according to administration officials.
Trump recently affirmed his commitment to this approach on his Truth Social platform, responding “TRUE!!!” to a proposal by Judicial Watch president Tom Fitton suggesting the use of military resources and declaration of a national emergency for mass deportations.
During a campaign rally at Madison Square Garden in New York City, Trump declared, “On Day 1, I will launch the largest deportation program in American history to get the criminals out.”
The administration has appointed key figures known for strict immigration stances. South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem has been nominated as Secretary of Homeland Security, pending Senate confirmation, while former Acting ICE Director Tom Homan will serve as Border Czar. The operations are expected to target “sanctuary” cities including Chicago, Illinois; New York City; Los Angeles, California; Denver, Colorado; and Miami, Florida.
Legal experts note that while the military can provide logistical support, transportation, and surveillance, direct involvement in detaining individuals could face significant legal challenges under the Posse Comitatus Act of 1878, which generally restricts federal military personnel from engaging in domestic law enforcement.
The scope of the proposed operation is unprecedented. Current estimates indicate approximately 13.3 million undocumented immigrants reside in the United States. The American Immigration Council projects that a one-time mass deportation operation would cost approximately $315 billion, while a longer-term operation deporting one million people annually over 10.6 years would cost $967.9 billion.
Economic analysis suggests significant impacts on various sectors. Research indicates that deporting 1.3 million undocumented immigrants could reduce U.S. GDP by 1.2% and employment by 1.1% by 2028. In a more extensive scenario involving 8.3 million deportations, GDP could decrease by 7.4% and employment by 6.7%.
The Center for Migration Studies reports there are 3.3 million mixed-status households in the United States, containing both U.S. citizens and undocumented residents. Mass deportations could reduce household incomes in these families by 47% and potentially cost $118 billion to support the remaining U.S.-born children.ed to immigration. As the new administration prepares to take office, the country awaits further details on the implementation of these policies and the potential impact on millions of residents.
